Mayor’s Christmas Message 2025
Cllr Mike Dawe
Mayor, Bude-Stratton Town Council
Dear Residents…
As 2025 draws to a close, I would like to reflect on what has been a significant and constructive year for Bude and Stratton. Across heritage, infrastructure, civic life, community engagement and cultural events, our town has continued to demonstrate both resilience and pride.
Thank you to everyone who has contributed — through voluntary work, community projects, business activity, or simple day-to-day support for neighbours and local organisations.
Civic Leadership and Local Democracy
In May, I was honoured to be elected Mayor of Bude-Stratton. This year’s elections strengthened our democratic foundations and saw residents stepping forward to represent the town — a positive sign of continued civic engagement and public commitment.
Protecting our Heritage
Storm Tower and Compass Point Project
Image: Compass Point Team receiving award
2025 saw national and regional recognition for the preservation of our iconic Storm Tower. The completed Compass Point Project:
Won the Cornish Buildings Group Award 2025
Was shortlisted for the RICS UK Awards (Heritage category)
The careful relocation and reconstruction of the Storm Tower — stone by stone — has protected an important landmark at risk from coastal erosion and shows what can be achieved through collaboration, commitment and thoughtful conservation.
Community, Culture and Civic Pride
Visits from the High Sheriff of Cornwall
Image: Visit by the High Sheriff of Cornwall to community organisations in Bude-Stratton
We were honoured to host three High Sheriff visits during the year:
March
High Sheriff Sam Galsworthy visited local schools, volunteer groups, the community café, Age Concern, youth initiatives, sea-pool volunteers, Bude Surf Life Saving Club and more. The visit concluded with the Spirit of Bude Awards, recognising outstanding contributions from residents.
September and November
The new High Sheriff, Geraint Richards OBE MVO FICFor, met with heritage groups, conservation volunteers, canal and woodland stewards, and representatives from community organisations.
These visits highlighted the dedication and quiet hard work of our volunteers, who are central to the strength and character of our community.
Commemorations and Remembrance
Image: Community commemorations – Battle of Stratton
This year marked several important anniversaries that brought us together in reflection and respect:
VE Day 80 — Services, music from Bude Choral Society, an Old Cornwall Society exhibition in the Castle grounds, and a community gathering.
VJ Day 80 — A service at the War Memorial on Shalder Hill.
Remembrance Sunday and Armistice Day — Wreath-laying and services in both Bude and Stratton.
Battle of Stratton (1643) — A wreath laid at Stamford Hill, continuing our annual commemoration.
Cornish Heritage and Culture
Image: St Piran’s Day celebrations on Summerleaze Downs
Cultural celebrations continue to play an important role in community life:
St Piran’s Day celebrations on Summerleaze Downs brought together schoolchildren, councillors and residents, with singing led by pupils and contributions from local speakers.
Speak Cornish Week included a well-attended Cornish-language taster session, supporting the continued use of the Cornish language.
Thank You to Our Community
My sincere thanks go to the many volunteers, community groups, charities, businesses, council staff and councillors who contribute throughout the year. Whether you support older residents, care for our environment, assist with youth services, protect heritage, maintain green spaces or help at community cafés — your efforts underpin the wellbeing of our towns.
Looking Ahead to 2026
As we move into the year ahead, the Council remains committed to:
Safeguarding our heritage assets
Supporting local business and economic resilience
Maintaining and improving community services
Ensuring open, effective and responsive local governance
We will continue to work closely with residents, listening to concerns and aspirations, and working together to keep Bude and Stratton a safe, welcoming and thriving place to live.
Seasonal Wishes
As we enter the festive season, I wish everyone a peaceful and enjoyable Christmas, and a positive, healthy and productive New Year.
Cllr Mike Dawe
Mayor, Bude-Stratton Town Council
